Go Back

Jackpot Slots Vs Regular Slots: What Is The Difference?

Jackpot Slots Vs Regular Slots: What Is The Difference?

If you've spent any time playing online slots, you might have noticed that some offer jackpots while others do not. Understanding the differences between jackpot slots and regular slots is key to knowing which type may appeal to you more.

In this Mega Reel casino blog post, we’ll explore the unique features of each type. From potential payouts to gameplay variations, you'll get a clear picture of what sets these slots apart. Whether you're new to online casinos, or looking to expand your slot gaming knowledge, this guide can help you make informed choices.

What’s The Difference Between Jackpot Slots & Regular Slots?

Let’s start with regular slots. These games offer fixed payouts determined by the game's paytable. When you spin the reels and match a number of symbols, you win the amount shown on the paytable. Regular slots have straightforward gameplay, which can make them easier to understand and enjoy.

On the other hand, jackpot slots have a different dynamic. There are two main types: progressive and fixed. Progressive jackpots increase every time someone plays the game, but don’t win the jackpot. This can lead to substantial prizes accumulating. Fixed jackpots, meanwhile, have set high amounts, which do not change regardless of how many people play.

You’ll also notice that jackpot slots often have different betting requirements compared to regular slots. This means you might need to place a higher bet to be eligible for the jackpot prize, depending on the game.

Choosing between jackpot slots and regular slots often comes down to your gaming preferences. If you enjoy consistent gameplay, regular slots might be your go-to. However, if you find the idea of chasing larger potential prizes appealing, then jackpot slots could be more your style.

How Does a Jackpot Slot Work?

Jackpot slots come with a unique feature: they offer a chance to win a large prize. Let’s break down how they work.

At the core of a jackpot slot is the jackpot amount. In progressive jackpot slots, this amount starts at a base value and increases every time someone places a bet. A small percentage of each bet goes into the jackpot pool, making it grow over time.

There are usually certain conditions you need to meet to be eligible for the jackpot, depending on the slot game. For instance, you might need to place the maximum bet or land specific symbols. This makes the gameplay distinct from regular slots.

Some jackpot slots feature multiple levels of potential jackpots, such as mini, minor, and major jackpots. Each level offers different prize amounts, and each may be triggered under different conditions.

Another key aspect is how the jackpot is triggered. This can vary from game to game. Some games trigger the jackpot randomly, while others might require a special bonus round. Understanding these unique triggers can add an extra layer of fun to your gameplay.

To learn more about a particular slot game, you can refer to the game rules and paytable.

By knowing how jackpot slots work, you can make more informed choices about whether this type of slot suits your playing style.

How Do You Win a Jackpot Slot?

Winning a jackpot slot can vary significantly from one game to another. Each slot has its own set of rules and requirements for hitting the jackpot. Some may require you to land specific symbol combinations, or trigger a special bonus round.

In progressive jackpot slots, placing the maximum bet might be one of the conditions to qualify for the potential jackpot prize.

To fully understand the conditions for winning a specific jackpot slot, it’s useful to read the game’s paytable and rules. Casinos often provide detailed information about each game, which can usually be found on the game’s main screen or in a help section.

By taking the time to understand the specific requirements and mechanics of each jackpot slot, you can make more informed decisions while playing.

What Are The Odds Of Winning On Jackpot Slots?

The odds of winning on jackpot slots can vary widely depending on the specific game and the type of jackpot offered. Progressive jackpots, which grow over time, tend to have lower odds of winning compared to fixed jackpots. This is because the prize can reach significant amounts, making it more challenging to win.

Online slots, including those with jackpots, use a Random Number Generator (RNG). This ensures that each spin is independent and the outcome is unpredictable. While this adds a layer of fairness, it also means that determining the precise odds for any given spin is nearly impossible.

It’s worth noting that the Return to Player (RTP) percentage can give you a general idea of how much a slot might pay back over many plays. However, RTP is a long-term estimate and doesn't guarantee individual wins or losses. Jackpot slots often offer a slightly lower RTP compared to regular slots because a portion of the RTP contributes to the growing jackpot.

For detailed information about the odds on a specific jackpot slot, you can usually find this in the game’s help section or paytable. Understanding these details can help you make more informed decisions when choosing which slots to play.

What Triggers Jackpots On Slot Machines?

Jackpots on slot machines can be triggered in several different ways, and this often varies from one game to another.

One common method is through specific symbol combinations. Some slots require you to land certain high-value symbols on a particular payline to trigger the jackpot. These combinations are often more difficult to achieve, adding to the excitement.

Another way jackpots can potentially be triggered is through special bonus rounds. In these games, entering a bonus round can present you with opportunities to try and win the jackpot. These could involve mini-games or picking options until you find the jackpot prize.

Random triggers are also quite popular. In these cases, the jackpot can be awarded randomly after any spin. This means you don’t need to achieve any specific symbol combination or enter a bonus round; the game itself decides when to award the jackpot.

Understanding how these triggers work may enhance your gameplay experience. Most slot games provide detailed information on how their jackpots can be triggered in their paytables or help sections. It’s a good idea to review these details to know what to expect when you play.

By knowing the different ways jackpots can be triggered, you’ll be better equipped to choose the slot games that best match your preferences.

Which Slots Pay Out More?

When it comes to which slots pay out more, it’s important to remember that all slots are random games of chance. This means payouts can vary widely, and no outcome is certain.

Jackpot slots can offer significantly larger payouts compared to regular slots, especially if they are progressive jackpots. However, because of the potential for larger prizes, the odds of winning these jackpots are generally lower.

Regular slots, on the other hand, often offer more consistent but smaller possible payouts. The potential prize amounts might not be as high as in jackpot slots, but you may find that potential wins occur more frequently.

To get an idea of potential payouts, you can look at the RTP percentages for each slot. This figure gives you an estimate of how much a slot may pay back to players over many spins. While RTP is a useful indicator, it doesn’t guarantee individual results.

Understanding these factors can help you decide which type of slot fits your playing style. 

What Is The Biggest Winning Slot Machine Jackpot?

Jackpot amounts can vary greatly and are often changing. Some of the most memorable wins have come from progressive slot machines, where the prize pool increases with each play.

One notable example is Games Global, a leading supplier of online gaming content. A Betway player won an astonishing €13.5 million on Christmas Eve. This win occurred on the slot game Book of Mega Moolah, which features the Mega Moolah progressive jackpot.

Such massive wins highlight the potential payouts these slot games can offer, even with relatively modest bets, depending on the game.

Other popular progressive slots known for sizeable payouts include titles like Mega Fortune and Hall of Gods. These games have also built reputations for awarding substantial jackpots to fortunate players.

Understanding how these large jackpots are won and the potential they hold can add an extra layer of excitement to your gaming experience. However, it’s essential to remember that such wins do not happen often, and outcomes are entirely random.

Is It Better To Play Jackpot Slots Or Regular Slots?

Whether to play jackpot slots or regular slots is a subjective decision and depends on your preferences.

If you enjoy the excitement of chasing larger potential prizes, jackpot slots might be more appealing to you. Progressive jackpots that grow over time can offer substantial payouts, adding an extra layer of anticipation to your gameplay.

Conversely, regular slots tend to provide more consistent but smaller possible wins. If you prefer straightforward gameplay, regular slots could be the better choice. These games may often have higher RTP percentages, providing a different kind of enjoyment.

Each type of slot presents its unique features and potential rewards. Understanding these differences can help you decide which type aligns best with your gaming style.

Please play responsibly.


*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these slot games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.